Aug. 1, 2017, Washington, D.C. – On paper, this first-round encounter was a dream match worthy of a championship round at the WTA Citi Open tournament. The 2015 winner, Sloane Stephens of the United States, played against the No. 1 seed and second-ranked Simona Halep of Romania.
Indeed, in the first set, the billing played true to form. In fact, Stephens played brilliantly, saving seven of eight break points while winning one of two break points. In the first set tie break, both played hesitatingly with each having a double fault. Nevertheless, there were no reason for Stephens to panic after losing the tie break, 7-3.
But in the second set, Halep came roaring out of the gate, and basically took over the match, 7-6 (3), 6-0. Impressively, she was three for three in break points won and three for three in break points saved. She also won 71 percent of the points played.
Photos: Simona Halep d. Sloane Stephens, 7-6 (3), 6-0, 2017 Citi Open first round
all photos by Kwai Chan / Meniscus Magazine
![Song: “Ashibina” Composed by Shuken Maekawa Performers: Mari Miyasato, Miyaka Nishihira & Rev. Blayne Nakasone Sakata Event: The Pacific Buddhist Academy’s 18th Annual Taiko Festival, Moanalua High School Performing Arts […]](https://www.meniscuszine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/PBA-18th-Annual-Taiko-Festival_240317_001_54b-75x75.jpg "“Ashibina” – 2024 PBA 18th Annual Taiko Festival")
![Song: “Count on Me” Composed by Bruno Mars, Phillip Lawrence and Ari Levine Performers: Addi Hernandez & Mone Sugimoto Event: The Pacific Buddhist Academy’s 18th Annual Taiko Festival, Moanalua High […]](https://www.meniscuszine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/PBA-18th-Annual-Taiko-Festival_240317_001_50b-75x75.jpg "“Count on Me” – 2024 PBA 18th Annual Taiko Festival")